TEKKI SAN DAN - Iron Horse Number Three

The third and last kata in this series Tekki San Dan is probably the most popular of the three Tekki katas. This kata introduces the student to new techniques not previously seen in previous katas in this series including, sokumen-gedan-furisute (downward knuckle strike) and yoku-ude-hasami (middle level trapping technique). This kata can be best summed up as the final part of what was once one single continuous kata that originally linked all three Tekki katas together.

This kata contains 33 movements and should take approximately 40 seconds to complete. The correct performance of this kata is required in order to advance in rank from Sho Dan (1st Dan) to Ni Dan (2nd Dan). In addition to performing the kata, the student must also demonstrate appropriate bunkai for this kata as a requirement for advancement.

There are two kiai points in Tekki San Dan. The first one occurs on the first jodan-shita-zuki (upper level rising punch) on the left side half way through the kata. The second kiai occurs on the last movement of the kata which is the second jodan-shita-zuki upper level rising punch) only this time on the right side of the body.

To return to a ready position after the last movement of the kata leave your left foot in place and withdraw your right foot so as to stand up once again facing forward in hachiji-dachi (natural stance). You must now formally end the kata. You do this by bringing your left foot half way in towards your right foot and your right foot half way in towards your left foot so that you are now standing with your feet together. At the same time as you bring your feet together also bring your hands to your sides so you are again standing in heisoku-dachi (attention stance). Now rei (bow). After bowing, step out with your left foot and then your right foot and once again stand in hachiji-dachi (natural stance) while at the same time bringing your hands from your sides and hold them in a ready position in front of you with your fists closed.

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